Maori see positives in 'warrior' gene theory

By Paul Dykes
Scientists' theory that Maori possess a "warrior" gene which predisposes them to aggressive and violent behaviour and alcoholism has been greeted with interest by Bay Maori.
New Zealand researcher Dr Rod Lea put the "warrior" gene theory forward at an Australian genetics conference this week, acknowledging that it was controversial to suggest an ethnic group had a predisposition toward criminal behaviour.
Dr Lea said Maori men had an over-representation of monoamine oxidase - dubbed the warrior gene - which was associated with aggressive behaviour.
While he said there were positive aspects of this gene, it "goes a long way to explaining some of the problems Maori have".
"Maori, being very adventurous individuals as they crossed the Pacific, have carried this gene forward and it was partly responsible for them arriving in New Zealand and surviving," he said.
Dr Lea, a genetic epidemiologist at the Institute of Environmental Science and Research in Wellington, said the gene also explained some of the problems facing Maori.
"Obviously, this means they are going to be more aggressive and violent and more likely to get involved in risk-taking behaviour like gambling," Dr Lea said, ahead of his presentation to the International Congress of Human Genetics in Brisbane.
Colin Bidois, chairman of Runanganui O Tauranga Moana, said this morning that it was "an interesting observation" but said he would need time to read the report through before he could make full comment. "One can't deny evidence that comes out of detailed scientific study, but I am sure there are other factors that come into overall human behaviour that could have a balancing effect.
"My own observation is that perhaps Maori are more physical than the European population, but that doesn't mean it is a totally negative thing."
Rehua Smallman, chairman of runanga for Ngati Pukenga in Tauranga, could also see positive aspects in the theory.
"Maori have a warrior gene - definitely. It's been brought down through the generations. That's the positive side.
"I wouldn't link it to violence and gambling and other aspects."
Ngaiterangi chief executive Brian Dickson said he felt the theory should have been announced in New Zealand first, not overseas.
He said it was hard to comment without seeing the full report, "but these things he talks about could apply to any race".
"I could wrap all those words up in one word - colonisation. That's probably more to do with it than genes."
Dr Lea said the gene "definitely predisposes people to be more likely to be criminals and engage in that type of behaviour as they grow older," but added that he believed other, non-genetic factors might be at play as well.
- Additional reporting NZPA